NAVAJO NATION FAIR: True to the Culture
The Navajo Nation Fair is recognized as the largest Native American Fair in the world, and with national events such as Championship Bull Riding and stadium concerts from artists such as Sugarland, Bucky Covington and Earl Thomas Conley, it’s easy to see why.
Photo: Navajo Nation FairBut what really defines what the fair is about and what makes it an international attraction isn’t the cowboys and cowgirls, it is the Navajo people.
With the Navajo Nation being the largest reservation in the United States, covering a distance of 26,000 square miles, the Navajo Nation Fair is a time for people from all over the reservation to unite with old friends and family.
That is what makes the fair so unique, because people coming from all four directions attend to congregate at the capital of the Navajo Nation.
The fair is a nice blend of the modern and traditional practices of the Navajo people, and it attempts to shorten the gap between the Navajo youth and the Navajo elders.
People take part in Navajo Song & Dance, Powwow, Indian Rodeo, Junior Rodeo, Night Performance, Gourd Dance, Fine Arts and Crafts and Traditional games.
They take part in their culture.
Besides the traditional events that typically appear at the fair, there is also a parade, a baby contest, 4-H Livestock, Horticulture, traditional Navajo cuisine, Frazier Shows Carnival and youth entertainment.
With all of the different events occurring at the fair, people travel from all over the world to attend, but with all the unique art that is featured, people can also take the fair back to their homes.
Navajo artists feature their authentic work of rugs, paintings, silverwork, jewelry, woodcarvings and other handicrafts that patrons can purchase. The Navajo people are know throughout the world for their art form, and the chance to witness some of the best local art draws thousands of International tourists.
The weeklong fair, which takes place in September, is not only one of the premier destinations to attend in Arizona, but all over the world. Take part in the fair, and take part in the culture.
For more information visit www.navajonationfair.com
